Set in a large, secluded garden between St Mawes castle and the village harbour, Penolva comes from the Cornish word meaning ‘lookout on the headland’. It’s one of very few homes in the village with a private waterfront, and because of that, it has some of the best views around. It was built in the sixties by a friend of the Queen Mother, Dick Wilkins, and it’s reported that the Royal family used to visit Wilkins at the home while on excursions from HMY Brittania. That’s pretty good pedigree. The home has been done up recently, and now showcases a great selection of British art. The views, however, are framed by the windows in such a way that they might as well be the paintings. On top of that, host Amanda goes the extra mile to ensure that your stay is special. She’s thought of every possibility, from providing board games to keep you entertained on rainy days, to running a bespoke concierge service. Everything from a private chef or a picnic hamper, to baby-sitting, to a full massage can be arranged.